A systematic review of enteric pathogens in solid waste disposal sites and surrounding environments

Abstract

Solid waste disposal sites and indiscriminate dumping are favorable breeding grounds for various pathogens, including enteric pathogens. The pathogens include protozoan parasites, bacteria, and viruses. This study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of various enteric pathogens at solid waste disposal sites and surrounding environments. Additionally, it analyzed detection methods, assessed reported antimicrobial resistance, and identified the research gaps in the literature. We searched five databases, targeting peer-reviewed articles from January 2003 to June 2024. Thirty-eight articles were retained for final analysis. The results indicate that at least one enteric pathogen was detected in every study. 71 % of the studies reported on bacteria, 13 % on parasites, 5.3 % on viruses, and the remaining percentage was on multiple pathogens. Evidence indicates the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in solid waste disposal sites. Culture-based enteric pathogen detection methods dominated compared to molecular and microscopic techniques. Our work identified research gaps such as a lack of completeness and underrepresentation of data in all geographic regions, such as low- and middle-income countries. Further, not all enteric pathogens have been extensively studied, leaving a gap in understanding their impacts. Additionally, the studies are missing the pathways for transmitting enteric pathogens and the employment of quantitative microbial risk assessments (QMRA). We recommend more thorough studies for all pathogens, including fungi, and prioritizing research in low and middle-income countries. Additionally, implementing quantitative microbial risk assessments (QMRA) and integrating a holistic One Health approach in studies.